I recently attended a 3-hour seminar at Zhen Ren Chuan, martial and healing arts systems. I am not a regular student at the school, but came from Maine specifically for this seminar, with my own instructor and fellow students. This is the second seminar I have attended taught by Ian Factor. My instructor, a long-time student of Instructor Ian, enthusiastically recommended attending this seminar. I was very pleased with the experience. It was positive, fun, and a great introduction to the martial art of Baguazhang. Instructors Ian and Charles bring a different but complementary approach to teaching. They were very attentive, energetic, and knowledgeable. The quality of the instruction was excellent. The lesson plan flowed well, and enough details were given, without overwhelming the student. The exercises were explained and demonstrated well.
I learned new stretching, warm-up, balancing, and strengthening exercises. There was emphasis on correct body alignment, not only to avoid joint injuries, but how to loosen up, relax, and rotate areas that are not normally addressed in other exercises. They introduced how to wave the spine in order to generate power. We learned another uniquely challenging exercise that engaged every part of the body to move in a circular, fluid motion. Part of the challenge involved isolating body movements but synchronizing the timing and flow.
We were also introduced to Baguazhang circle walking with single palm change, which is apparently typically reserved for more advanced students. Although seemingly simple, the effects of learning and practicing the circle walking was profound. The circle walking seemed to elicit deep feelings, an awareness of a primal nature. As we walked, breathing silently, walking stealthily, focusing intently on the center ball, I could not help but feel I was circling prey, in a relaxed and controlled manner. The mind was quiet, focused, unified with the body. The closing meditation allowed us to reemerge and transition from the circle walking in a peaceful, powerful way. I was awash in feelings of stillness and quiet awareness. Along with the physical benefits of the circle walking, it seemed to be a good way to clear the head and focus when one has trouble focusing during a sitting meditation.
There were several people at the seminar who have never done any martial arts before, and I think they at least came away with new methods for increasing flexibility, strength, balance, and relaxation. But I think they came away with more. I've participated in yoga, and various athletic and dance endeavors, but martial arts is certainly unique.
The instructors have an uncommon depth and breath of knowledge, and seem to offer their knowledge generously to the willing student. The instructors have strong backgrounds in both the fighting aspects of martial arts and its healing potential. I think the dedicated student can learn much from these instructors, and be inspired to reach for one's higher potential.
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